“Sharla and I send our thoughts and prayers to Representative Scalise, his family and staff, the capital police officers who bravely protect us every day," said Senator Jon Tester in a conference call with reporters. "Senseless violence like this reminds us that when tragedy strikes, we’re Americans first.”

In a statement released by his campaign, Congressman-elect Greg Gianforte said he and his wife were also praying for those effected.

“My heart broke this morning with the news of the shooting in Washington, D.C. Susan and I are praying for U.S. House Majority Whip Steve Scalise, members of Congress, capitol police and first responders," said Gianforte. "I commend the heroic acts of bravery we saw today from the capitol police.”

Senator Daines tweeted that he was praying for the victims. In a video on his Facebook page, he also used the opportunity to promote legislation he introduced today to prohibit physical desecration of the American flag.